.jpeg)
For years, Al-Shabaab has presented itself as a militant insurgency—hiding in rural areas, launching asymmetric attacks, and pretending to be the underdog. But make no mistake: this is not just a ragtag extremist group operating from the shadows. Shabaab has always had one goal—statehood.
Their aim is to drag Somalia into a long, exhausting conflict, and then force the hand of both Somali leaders and international partners to offer them a seat at the table. A state in name, a terrorist sanctuary in practice.
But here’s the truth: Shabaab is weak. On their own, they would have been crushed years ago. What’s kept them alive is not strength on the battlefield, but betrayal off it.
The Double Game: Corruption and Collusion
Somalis need to understand that the real threat isn’t just Shabaab—it’s the systemic rot within parts of the Federal Government and Security Forces. Corrupt politicians, power brokers, and infiltrators inside the army have double-crossed the Somali people. They benefit from keeping the war going, manipulating international aid, and undermining every genuine counter-terror effort.
Some of these actors are allegedly linked to external backers—Qatar’s name comes up often in whispered conversations and analysis reports—as they push for “negotiated settlements” with Shabaab. But let’s be clear: this is not peacemaking. This is legitimizing terror.
The Dangerous Push for "Amnesty"
The Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) has floated ideas of amnesty before. Soon, it’s likely we’ll see these ideas resurface—likely packaged as "reintegration" or "peace frameworks." This is a calculated move to test the public’s resolve, to normalize the idea of compromise.
But you don’t compromise with a group that slaughters civilians, bombs schools, and pledges loyalty to global jihadist networks. You don’t bring killers into government and call it peace. That is capitulation, not reconciliation.
The Cost of Inaction
As long as Shabaab exists in any form—militarily, financially, or politically—Somalia will never know peace. Investors will stay away, international partners will hesitate, and the dreams of progress will remain just that: dreams.
Even worse, countries that back or tolerate Shabaab will gain ultimate leverage over Somalia’s future. The fight against terrorism must be clear and uncompromising—there is no middle ground.